Basic Vinaigrette

Name: Basic Vinaigrette
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1/4 cup red wine vinegar; 3/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin); 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon honey (optional); 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)

5 min 8 servings Easy

All Recipes

Basic Vinaigrette

A simple and classic vinaigrette perfect for salads and marinades.

Prep

5 min

Total

5 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

A basic vinaigrette is a staple in any kitchen, providing a quick and easy way to add flavour to salads, vegetables, and even proteins. The classic combination of oil and vinegar forms the base of countless dressings and marinades. With just a few basic ingredients and a whisk, you can create a vinaigrette that elevates any dish. This versatile dressing can be customized to suit your taste, making it a truly indispensable recipe.

Instructions

Combine vinegar and mustard

In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar and Dijon mustard until well combined.

Pro tip: Whisking the mustard into the vinegar helps emulsify the dressing.

Add honey and seasoning

Add the honey (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the vinegar mixture. Whisk until the salt is dissolved.

Slowly incorporate olive oil

Gradually whisk in the olive oil in a slow, steady stream until the vinaigrette is emulsified and smooth.

Pro tip: Adding the oil slowly helps to create a stable emulsion.

Taste and adjust

Taste the vinaigrette and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper to taste.

Pro tip: For more acidity, add a little more vinegar.

Store or serve

Transfer the vinaigrette to a jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid. Shake well before serving.

Pro tip: Store in the refrigerator for up to one week.

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Tips & Tricks

Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavour.
Adjust the acidity by adding more or less vinegar to taste.
Keep it fresh by storing in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Add herbs like basil or thyme for extra flavour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a basic vinaigrette?

A basic vinaigrette is a simple dressing made with oil, vinegar, and seasonings, used to enhance salads and other dishes.

How long does homemade vinaigrette last?

Homemade vinaigrette can last up to one week when stored in the refrigerator in a sealed container.

What is the oil to vinegar ratio in vinaigrette?

The typical oil to vinegar ratio in a vinaigrette is 3:1, though it can be adjusted to taste.

Can I use other types of vinegar?

Yes, you can use different types of vinegar like balsamic, apple cider, or white wine vinegar for different flavours.

How do you emulsify a vinaigrette?

To emulsify a vinaigrette, slowly whisk the oil into the vinegar and mustard mixture until smooth and well combined.

Serving Suggestions

This basic vinaigrette is perfect for enhancing the natural flavours of fresh greens, roasted vegetables, or grilled chicken. Pair it with a crisp garden salad or use it as a marinade for meats and seafood. To make ahead, simply prepare the vinaigrette and store it in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake well before each use to recombine the ingredients.

Nutrition per serving

170

Calories

Protein

18g

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